Philadelphia MFT

The holiday season is here in full swing and it can be a challenge to not feel overwhelmed by present buying, gift giving, food making, and managing travel schedules. Even with the hustle and bustle going on around you, you can successfully still be present and enjoy your season with holiday cheer.

Say Yes to LessWe tend to add more to our plate as the year comes to a close and the new year approaches. You may want to pick up additional shifts at work or do more favors in the spirit of helping others, however it's best to be realistic with your time and what you can actually offer to others. There's no point in adding more when you can't offer your best. Say yes to less to reduce your stress.

Prioritize Self-CareSelf-care takes a back seat around the holidays and if you're a people pleaser, that level of self-care diminishes more than it normally would trying to place others needs and desires in front of your own. Self-care should be ramped up due to the added stressors that are placed on us at this time of year. Keep yourself healthy both physically and mentally so that you're able to fully enjoy your holiday season. Give yourself more time, more love, more space so that you can step out into the Christmas madness fully prepared for anything.

Let Go of ExpectationsThis time of year can downright bring out the nasty in all of us. Don't disappoint yourself by placing unrealistic expectations on yourself, your family members and holiday events. Take people and the days as they come and pull out the good where you can. Allow yourself to be present with those you're around and release any intentions to perform. Life is going to happen no matter what your expectations may be. Don't make it worse by attaching unrealistic outcomes to the season.

Holiday season can be depressing for many. Do more for yourself by adding an unbiased perspective and insight to help you navigate through family drama and end of the year stressors. Find out more about Philadelphia MFT's individual and relationship services and therapy practices here.